There are (surprisingly) quite a few state parks with fall foliage in Texas. One of my favorites is Martin Creek Lake State Park in Tatum because it's criminally underrated. This woodland oasis features towering pines, meandering trails, a beautiful lake, and some of the most dazzling autumn hues you've ever seen. You'll hardly believe you're still in Texas!

Martin Creek Lake State Park is located in the small town of Tatum, just 20 miles southeast of Longview - but you'd never know it's so close to a relatively big city.

Peace and solitude abound in this little slice of heaven, where towering pine trees create a canopy within which visitors can take respite from the constant demands of everyday life.

The park is open year-round and offers such activities as fishing, camping, paddling, swimming, hiking, and biking.

Nearly four miles of multi-use trails wind through the park, and leashed pets are welcome and encouraged.

Despite the fact that the park is gorgeous in every season, I'm definitely partial to visiting during fall.

Autumn foliage typically peaks around Thanksgiving here, and it's a breathtaking sight to behold.

Whether you're on the water or the land, the views are simply jaw-dropping.

Perhaps you'll admire the warm, seasonal hues while casting a line on the lake. The water is warm all year thanks to a power plant, and anglers can expect to catch largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, yellow catfish, tilapia, and sunfish.

If you don't enjoy fishing, the trails showcase the dazzling red, orange, and yellow colors just as well.

The 1.5-mile Harmony Hill Loop is my favorite trail in the park because it leads to the remnants of an abandoned community.

On the off-chance your visit happens to line up with Halloween, the park's annual trunk-or-treat event is always a blast.

With the fall foliage in the background and campsites decorated with lights and blow-ups galore, it's a spooky season getaway you'll never forget.

Visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife website for more information about the park, including current hours of operation and entrance fees.

You can also visit the Facebook page for Martin Creek Lake State Park for updates about the status of this year's fall foliage.

Have you ever visited Martin Creek Lake State Park in the fall? Are there any other state parks with fall foliage in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don't forget to check out our hiking packing list for everything you need to hit the trails in the park.